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Community

Mr. Thanksgiving Lines Up His Successor

Michelle O'Neill
/
WVIK News
Bob Vogelbaugh, "Mr. Thanksgiving" (L) with Vicki Birdsell-Baker (R) who has partnered with him to prepare the meal for years (file)

Mr. Thanksgiving is preparing to serve his 47th annual turkey dinner at South Park Mall in Moline.

Michelle O'Neill reports Bob Vogelbaugh is also requesting donations.

Bob Vogelbaugh, of Moline, plans to organize the dinner for three more years, until the 50th anniversary. After that, Isaac Rumler and his family will take over. Isaac is in third grade. He and Isaac have gotten to know each other over the years. And when Vogelbaugh asked if he'd become "Mr. Thanksgiving Junior," Isaac said, "Yes."

Credit Michelle ONeill / WVIK News
/
WVIK News
file

About 2,000 people enjoyed last year's turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Vogelbaugh says it's for anyone who would otherwise be alone on Thanksgiving Day.

It costs around $20,000, and he accepts donations by mail at 3704 26th Street, Moline, Illinois 61265.

Vogelbaugh's dinner will be served on Thanksgiving Day from 4 until 6 pm, near Von Maur in South Park Mall.

MetroLink will give Illinois residents free rides, but reservations are required by noon on Tuesday, November 21st at 309.3360.

He'll need volunteers on Thanksgiving Day at 9 am to finish setting up tables and chairs. Those who volunteer during the meal should arrive at 3 pm.

Pies may be dropped off at the mall office on Wednesday, November 22nd, or near Von Maur on Thanksgiving morning.

Community
Officially, Michelle's title for 28 years was WVIK News Editor. She did everything there is to do in the newsroom and whatever was needed around the radio station. She also served as Acting News Director from September 2023 - January 2024.